Thursday, January 24, 2013

UnStuffed-Pepper Casserole

Or hotdish (yes, it’s one word) as we say in the frozen north.

What’s the distinction?

Location.

Really. If you’re from the north and have Norwegian heritage, you say hotdish. Elsewhere – basically once you hit Lake Michigan and go East, you’re in casserole land. Go south – casserole. Go west – casserole. Guess only the cool folks call it a hotdish.

A hotdish is simply a hot dish, typically baked in a casserole pan.

Now, some hotdish purists will say it needs to have canned or frozen veggies, meat, starch and a can of cream of _____ soup to be a hotdish.

I tend to side with the simple definition of the word – a hot dish. And, if that is the case, I’ve got an amazing hotdish to share with you.

Think stuffed peppers that have exploded (in a good way) in your pan – warm and gooey rice, yummy peppers, toss in some meat if you wish, and smother it with cheese and tomatoes.

Delicious.

Whether you call it a hotdish or a casserole, you should make this hot dish for your family soon. It’s a keeper.

I don't care what you call it, it looks amazing!! :D (Personally, I'm going to do all the sauteing/browning in my dutch oven on the stove so I can toss the whole thing in the oven and not have to wash 2 separate dishes. /nod)

When cooking, please make sure to follow kitchen hygiene and safety -- cook meat until internal temperature is at safe levels, always check labels for allergens, and use caution in the kitchen -- I love sharing recipes, but I am not liable for damages done as a result of trying these recipes.